Pristine beaches, championship golf, living Gullah culture, and miles of unspoiled natural beauty — all within easy reach of Savannah Lakes RV Resort.
Hilton Head Island is one of the Southeast's most beloved destinations — a barrier island where world-class beaches meet championship golf, living Gullah history, and protected natural landscapes. From Savannah Lakes RV Resort, it's just a short drive across the marshes of the Lowcountry.
Whether you're spending a single afternoon at the beach or a full day exploring the island's art galleries, lighthouse, wildlife refuges, and coastal trails, Hilton Head rewards every kind of traveler. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
Hilton Head's 12 miles of Atlantic coastline include some of the most scenic and well-maintained beaches on the East Coast. Here are the top spots to spend a day in the sun.
The island's most popular public beach, with restrooms, showers, a playground, and nearby dining and shops. Perfect for families and first-time visitors. Free parking available.
hiltonhead.com ↗A laid-back beach park with boardwalk access, volleyball courts, a playground, and beautiful views of the Atlantic. Popular with locals and less crowded than Coligny.
hiltonheadislandsc.gov ↗A quieter, more secluded beach on the island's north end adjacent to the historic Mitchelville Freedom Park. Beautiful sunsets and a more serene atmosphere make this a hidden gem.
hiltonhead.com ↗Beyond the beach, Hilton Head offers an outstanding collection of landmarks, museums, and experiences.
Hilton Head's most iconic landmark. Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the marina, the island, and the Atlantic. Located in the heart of Sea Pines Resort.
harbourtownlighthouse.com ↗An 68-acre waterfront campus celebrating Hilton Head's natural and cultural heritage. Guided tours, gardens, historic structures, and rotating exhibits tell the island's full story.
coastaldiscovery.org ↗One of the Southeast's most picturesque marinas. Browse boutique shops, dine waterfront, watch sailing vessels come and go, and take in stunning views of Calibogue Sound.
seapines.com ↗The site of one of the first self-governing communities of freedmen in America, established during the Civil War. A poignant and important piece of American history.
mitchelvillefreedompark.org ↗605 acres of native forest and wetlands within Sea Pines Resort, featuring walking trails, ancient shell rings left by indigenous peoples, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
seapines.com ↗Over 4,000 acres of salt marshes, forests, and freshwater ponds managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Home to bald eagles, herons, alligators, and over 300 bird species.
fws.gov ↗Hilton Head is as much a nature destination as a beach resort. Miles of trails, pristine tidal marshes, and protected refuges make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
4,000+ acres of protected coastal habitat managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Ideal for birding, hiking, and photography along 14 miles of unpaved trails.
605 acres of native maritime forest within Sea Pines, featuring a 4,000-year-old shell ring, freshwater lagoons, and excellent wildlife sightings year-round.
Explore the island's inland waterways, tidal creeks, and marshes by kayak or SUP. Dolphin encounters are common — many tour operators offer guided eco-paddles.
Over 60 miles of paved bike paths wind through Hilton Head's parks, beach accesses, and resort communities. Bikes are available to rent across the island.
Hilton Head's waters are home to bottlenose dolphins year-round. Spot them from the beach at dawn, from Harbour Town pier, or on a dedicated dolphin tour cruise.
Deep-sea, inshore, and fly fishing charters depart from multiple marinas. Redfish, flounder, trout, and tarpon are popular targets in the Lowcountry's prolific coastal waters.
Hilton Head Island is one of America's premier golf destinations, home to over 24 championship courses. Whether you're a scratch golfer or a weekend player, the island has a course worthy of your game.
One of the most iconic courses in American golf, home to the PGA TOUR's RBC Heritage each April. Designed by Pete Dye, it's as scenic as it is challenging.
seapines.com ↗A classic Bluffton-area course with dramatic marsh views and a scenic layout that rewards strategic play. One of the most scenic rounds in the region.
oldsouthgolf.com ↗The closest championship course to the resort, offering excellent Lowcountry golf just a short drive away — perfect for a spontaneous round.
hiltonheadlakesgolf.com ↗A well-maintained public course near Hardeeville offering accessible, enjoyable golf for all skill levels — an easy option right in the resort's backyard.
golfinsuncity.com ↗A Fuzzy Zoeller-designed course in Bluffton with a layout that winds beautifully through native Lowcountry terrain. Consistently ranked among the area's best values.
islandwestgolf.net ↗A fun option for families and casual players in Bluffton, featuring a creatively designed course in a lighthouse-themed setting. Great for an evening outing.
Google Maps ↗Each April, Harbour Town Golf Links hosts the RBC Heritage, one of the most beloved events on the PGA TOUR. The week following The Masters, golf fans gather for a uniquely intimate tournament experience. Plan your spring stay around it.
Here's a suggested itinerary for a full day trip from Savannah Lakes RV Resort — a great mix of beaches, sightseeing, and dining.
Depart the resort and enjoy the 25-minute scenic drive across the Lowcountry marshes. Grab coffee at a local café as you arrive on the island.
Arrive early for the best parking and the most peaceful morning on the beach. Swim, walk the shoreline, or simply relax before the crowds arrive.
Head to Sea Pines and explore the marina. Climb the Harbour Town Lighthouse for panoramic views, browse the waterfront shops, and grab an early lunch at one of the marina restaurants.
Choose your afternoon nature experience — a walk through Sea Pines' ancient forest, or a drive to Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge for birding and marshland trails.
End the sightseeing portion at this beautiful waterfront campus. Walk the grounds, explore the exhibits, and learn about the island's natural and Gullah cultural heritage.
Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant before making the easy drive back to Savannah Lakes for a relaxing evening under the Lowcountry sky.
A few tips to help you make the most of a day trip to Hilton Head Island.
Hilton Head's beaches and parking areas fill quickly in summer. Arriving before 9am makes a big difference, especially at Coligny.
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the island. Dozens of rental shops offer bikes by the hour or day, and the trail network is excellent.
Bottlenose dolphins are resident year-round. Early morning walks on the beach or kayak tours give the best viewing opportunities.
Hilton Head's beaches face full south-eastern sun. Strong sunscreen and a beach umbrella will keep the day enjoyable from start to finish.
Popular courses like Harbour Town Golf Links fill up fast, especially in spring. Book tee times several days or weeks in advance.
Nature trails and marsh areas can have biting insects, particularly in summer. A small bottle of insect repellent is worth packing for nature excursions.